The passing of Pope Francis has stirred deep emotions around the world, as well as a renewed fascination with the centuries-old traditions of the Vatican. Eyes are turned toward the secretive process that will determine his successor, the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
It’s a deeply consequential moment, and one that plays out in the recent thriller Conclave.
Directed by Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front), Conclave centers on the election of a new pope after the reigning pope’s sudden death. Ralph Fiennes leads a powerhouse cast as a cardinal who finds himself at the center of a conspiracy during the papal election. John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini and Stanley Tucci all deliver memorable performances.
Based on a book by Robert Harris (Enigma, The Ghost), Conclave draws from real-life Vatican tradition, but cranks up the drama for entertainment value. The secrecy, the symbolism, the power struggles — they’re all rooted in truth, but the film leans into betrayals, high-stakes revelations and a jaw-dropping twist.
In reality, the election of a pope is a solemn, procedural affair. In Conclave, it’s a powder keg of political intrigue and personal secrets — less about incense and prayer, more about shadows and suspense. It’s obviously not a documentary, but that’s what makes it gripping.
Here’s all the info on where to stream Conclave — and you can also live stream the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday.
Where to watch Conclave
Streaming:
Rental and purchase:
Concave is a highly acclaimed film, having been nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay, with Fiennes nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role and Rossellini for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Conclave currently holds a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 7.4/10 on IMDb.
So whether you’re interested in the intricacies of Vatican politics or just want to enjoy a gripping thriller, Conclave is a timely and engaging watch.
